KITSAP COUNTY, WA — The Kitsap Public Health District has issued a seven-day no-contact advisory for the Port Orchard waterfront and Ross Creek due to sewage discharge reported today by the City of Port Orchard. 

According to the City, the spill occurred this morning between 9-10:24 a.m. at a lift station near Old Clifton Rd. Estimated spill volume was 27,500 gallons. 

The advisory, in effect through Tues., March 21, includes the shoreline of Sinclair Inlet from the mouth of Anderson Creek to the public access point at the end of Rockwell Street in downtown Port Orchard) see yellow highlighted area on map). Advisory signs are being posted at public access points along the shoreline. While there are very few locations where people are likely to come into contact with Ross Creek, advisory signs are being posted near the site of the spill at 1190 Old Clifton Rd., and at the mouth of Ross Creek near Bay St.

During a no-contact advisory, the public is advised to avoid contact with the water in the affected area (see map).  This means that the District recommends against swimming, wading, or types of water recreation or play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes. People should also avoid direct skin contact if possible, and immediately wash with soap and water if they have exposure to the water.   A “frequently asked questions” document about no-contact advisories is available on the District’s website at www.kitsappublichealth.org/beaches.

An existing closure for recreational shellfish harvesting is in effect for Sinclair Inlet due to ongoing non-point pollution.  

Kitsap Public Health provides information on shellfish harvesting, beach closures and other public health topics via the District’s website, Facebook page, and the Kitsap Electronic Notification System (KENS) list serve. Sign-up at www.kitsappublichealth.org/subscribe.